Used Range Rover SUV: To buy or not to buy

Been itching for something that is pre-owned, exciting, timeless and a SUV. No clear purpose, but just something that is plain interesting to own.

BHPian AVR recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

If you read the title, you are either here to advise don’t do it or grab some popcorn and watch how this plays out.

So, I have a practical family SUV (2017 Endeavour 3.2L) and a Thar for off-road now. Been itching for something that is pre-owned, exciting, timeless and a SUV. No clear purpose, but just something that is plain interesting to own. Now the journey down this path can always backfire and become a money pit, but I have at least decided to play the field and see what’s out there.

Cutting to the chase:

• Is a previous version RR Vogue/Sport worth the risk? (Depending on vehicle 2011-2014 are the ones I see the most)
• Anybody who was brave enough to do the above? Experiences?
• How much should one set aside for contingency, when it comes to buying a used RR? Is there even a limit?
• Are authorized dealers the only way to get parts in India?
• Any particular models/variants to steer away from?

Would love to hear from you guys.

Here’s what GTO had to say on the matter:

You already have a lovely SUV & a Jeep. Why go looking for trouble? If I were you, I’d instead spice up the garage with a sweet pre-owned coupe or convertible (Cayman, Mini Cooper etc.). Or a fast sedan like a vRS.

I don’t even have the risk appetite to buy a more practical Benz or BMW that’s 8 – 10 years old. Hard to recommend a Range Rover of similar vintage.

It might still be acceptable abroad, but in India, you will struggle with the poor reliability, tough part supplies & finding independent garages who are well-versed with Range Rovers. If you absolutely want to buy an old luxury SUV, pick a Land Cruiser instead. Hell, even a Cayenne will be nicer to own.

With most older luxury cars, it usually averages to Rs. 1 – 1.5 lakhs a year. I have seen this consistently, across German brands & segments. For a Range Rover though (along with some other marques), I would peg this at a 2 – 3 lakh annual average. Remember the golden rule = no such thing as a cheap S-Class, and no such thing as a cheap Range Rover.

Also be prepared for a LOT of downtime. My far simpler C220 & 530d have spent up to 10 – 14 days off the road for major work. Will be longer with a Range Rover.

There are some specialists in the big cities, but the internet & online part stores will be your new best friends.

Here’s what BHPian quattroa4 had to say on the matter:

What a topic, too good!!!!! I was in the same situation a year and half back and then in a same dilemma as you are in right now, what a classic repeat.

But then something happened, on this very same forum Bhpian BlackPearl put up a thread of his purchase of a preowned Range Rover (sport – I think) and the journey he undertook in it. Please find it in the forums section here only and then after reading it in excitement I took a jump in it blindly ending up in purchase of a preowned RR Vogue 4.4 L TDV8 model of 2012 from a reputed dealer. The vehicle arrived on 23rd March 2020 to be precise and till date the story continues.

Frankly, do I love it right now? Answer is absolutely YES, what a ride comes a thought every time I see her in the morning and it drives and feels the way no other car can match, it’s a Range Rover after all and for a reason.

Now on the reliability side, no problems faced such so far mechanically but the infotainment system is giving troubles and I have been advised to change some modules in it for cameras and display which will cost approx. Rs 70-80 K and waiting for it since last 3 months and delivery not in sight yet, think will take another month for it.

As due to lockdowns covered only 6K km in it, but as GTO points out – maintenance could be in the range of approx. Rs 2 Lakhs per year considering spare and tyre costs.

My suggestion will be, if you have patient as one of your qualities then go for it.

Here’s what BHPian androdev had to say on the matter:

Ideal scenario:

Routine service at the dealer should not cost you more than 1L per year on avg – assuming no repairs and just scheduled maintenance like oils, filters, brakes etc. Insurance would be about 50K per year. Tires would be about 80K for 30K km.

Optimistic scenario:

Ideal scenario + one or two moderate repairs such as suspension, AC, convenience features. Max 5 Lakhs, can possibly done in pvt garages. You will find a lot DIY info on the web. In some cases, you might just decide to live with a stuck window or sunroof, etc.

Pessimistic scenario:

Major drivetrain issues. Bottomless pit. Even 15-20L may not save the day. Authorised dealership might be the only option. Goodwill discount can soften the blow but won’t be that easy for 2nd owner of a fairly aged car. Same would be the case if there are any major road accidents.

Someone who is new to this segment, has never seen a private workshop and completely depends on authorised dealers should stick to single owner cars with impeccable service history no matter how tempting the deals are on cars with unknown history. I would avoid cars from owners who are in car business – they are just too smart. You should be open to scout for out of state cars till you find a clean car.

You should go for what your heart desires. Buy with pessimism. Own it with optimism.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.